Summer To Do List.

I always have a list of things I can't wait to do when summer rolls around. But this year, it seems even more imperative due to the fact that this is my last summer without children. I've already done a few of these, but I want to do them again. 

 So here are my top ten things to do this summer:

1. Bake a Strawberry-Rhubarb Pie

This is one of my favorite pies ever. I love Rhubarb anything. MMMMM my tastebuds are already salivating, thinking of the last one I made two summers ago...It's definitely time to bake one of these again.

2. Swim in the Ocean (as often a possible)

I love the ocean, I love being near it and in it as much as I can. It makes me feel so alive and free. I love diving under waves and wading in the tide. The ocean is such a massive, gorgeous, natural force - I find it incredibly inspiring to be at her mercy.

3. Tacos and Margarita (virgin of course)

I love me some tacos. I eat them already at least once a week. But I haven't enjoyed a cocktail, let alone a margarita in ages, because I'm pregnant of course. I want to make sure I enjoy a nice virgin margarita so I can feel like I am letting my hair down a bit. 

4. Check Some Books Off My List (...that I have been meaning to read)

I read a lot, but I'd like to make a nice dent in my never ending book list. These are just a handful of books on my list. Nabokov and Vonnegut are two of my all time favorite authors - it's my goal in life to read all of their novels.

5. Sit on the Beach and Watch the Sunset

It's such a calming and beautiful time, when the day and night meet for a brief moment. I love to watch the sun dip into the sea, out on the horizon, and reflect on life and appreciate the beautiful moments. It reminds me of how fleeting our lives are and how I want to make the most of every moment. 

6. BBQ Some Burgers

Summer is the time for BBQs, and burgers are my favorite. I have already grilled up some tasty burgers but I want to do it a few more times at least. 

7. Cinespia

I love going to the Hollywood Forever Cemetery for movie screenings. It's such a great time to hangout with friends. I saw Jaws already this year, but I want to get in a couple more films.

8. Mini Road Trip

Daniel and I did a little 48 hour trip from LA to Monterey at the beginning of June for our anniversary and it was so much fun I want to do another little getaway. I'm going to start researching some fun day trips and places to explore. 

9. Attend an Outdoor Concert

I love being outdoors and I love live music. The Greek Theatre is one my favorite venues. I love how trees surround the place and make me forget I am smack dab in the middle of Los Angeles. I definitely hope to make it there at least once this year. 

10. Make S'mores

Roasting marshmallows over a bonfire is what summer is all about. I love burning my marshmallows so the outside in black and the inside is melted and gooey. I tend to leave it on fire - and smother the flames with the graham cracker and chocolate. It makes the chocolate melt a bit too.  I have also been reading some fun s'mores inspired cookie and brownie recipes. 

Summer Hair Inspiration.

Summer is nearly upon us. And it's no secret that I have a thing for undone hair. That said I have been making more of an effort to "fix" my hair. I tend to gravitate towards styles that are the messier the better. I never like my hair looking too done, and prefer how it looks at the end of the day, tousled with pieces loose. I tend to stick to hair styles that take a maximum of 10 minutes. I don't have the patience for anything more. I tend to get frustrated and I just don't care enough to spend more time on my hair. I am also really missing my long locks after chopping 4" off a while back.  I think I'm into fixing my hair right now as a distraction from my missing length. But I know it will be long again in no time.

Here are some hairstyles that I plan on rocking in the coming weeks: 

The Side Fishtail Braid.

This one doesn't take much time and looks great the later in the day it gets. I always leave whispy hairs loose around my face. It's great for summer activities like riding a bicycle and also looks great paired with a hat.

Braided Buns. 

These styles probably take the longest of any hair style on here because braiding and pinning are required. Voila! Lovely updos for a wedding, date, bridal/baby shower or a birthday party.

Little Side Snake Braid. 

This one is super fast to do, 5 minutes max. Adds so much to a look so quickly. I also love this one with a bold lip and lots of lashes. This one is great for work and transitions seamlessly for a night out on the town. 

The Crown Braid.

Easier than it looks, braid hair into pigtails and pin over your head. Make sure to leave lots of loose pieces, the messier the better. This is one of my favorite braided looks. It's great for day-to-night. Or really any occasion. 

Sleek & Straight. 

I happen to have pretty stick straight hair. All this takes for me is to brush my hair while it's wet and add a little serum. If your hair is wavy or curly this does requiring some straightening. This one is super easy for me so I tend to do this when I am super short on time. 

Beach Waves. 

Again, my hair is pretty straight so when my hair is wet I spray in some Surf Spray and Thickening Spray. Put my hair in a bun and let it almost dry completely. Then let it out, shake it out and scrunch a little. It does require some drying time. I wish my hair just looked like this naturally but alas it does need a little effort on my part. This is a look for everyday.

The Top Knot. 

Pull hair to top of head, and anyway you like, tie into a messy bun and secure with an elastic and a few bobby pins. I love this one paired with statement sunnies or a bright lip. Top Knots are great for hitting the gym or when your hair is a little greasy or it's the weekend or you're just feeling over your hair and want it up and out of your face. 

What are some hairstyles you plan to rock this summer?